I was dismissed and I think it is unfair — who do I contact, and how fast?
Dismissal claims have the shortest deadlines in labour law — as little as two or three weeks in some countries to contest in writing or at the labour court. So: do not sign anything today, do not accept a "settlement" on the spot, and get advice this week. Your trade union (TUC) (tuc.org.uk) represents members and often advises non-members for a first appointment; join now if you are not one. Acas (0300 123 1100) checks whether the dismissal breached protective rules (illness, pregnancy, works council, notice). Acas early conciliation → Employment Tribunal (0300 123 1100) is where the claim goes — cheap and without a lawyer in most countries.
🗣️ What to say
"I received notice of dismissal on [date], effective [date], for [reason given / no reason]. I contest the dismissal as unjustified [and in breach of my protection as … ]. I ask you to withdraw it or to state the grounds in writing. I reserve all rights and will not sign a settlement without advice."
🪜 Step by step
- Note the date and the deadlineThe day you received the notice starts the clock. Contest in writing before the deadline even if you have not finished thinking.
- Sign nothingNo mutual termination, no waiver, no "acknowledgement" — a signature can cost you unemployment benefit and the claim.
- Get the reasons in writingYou are entitled to them. Vague reasons are usually the employer's weakness.
- Advice now: Your trade union (TUC)Union lawyers see these every day and know the local court's practice. Legal aid if you are not a member and cannot pay.
- File at Acas early conciliation → Employment TribunalA reinstatement or compensation claim, within the deadline; most cases settle at the first hearing.
📇 All contacts
❓ Frequently asked
Is dismissal without a reason allowed?
In most EU countries not after the trial period: there must be a valid economic, conduct or capability ground, and a fair procedure. In a few countries at-will dismissal exists but discrimination and retaliation are still banned.
Will I get unemployment benefit?
Yes, unless you resigned or agreed a termination without good cause. That is why you sign nothing. Register with the employment service on day one regardless.
They offer money if I sign today
Take it home. Anything worth signing is still worth signing tomorrow after advice. Offers rarely shrink; claims often grow.
📎 Sources
- Your trade union (TUC) →
- Acas →
- Acas early conciliation → Employment Tribunal →
- Civil Legal Advice / Citizens Advice / Law Centres →
🔎 Common searches
Recognise your own search? The answer above covers all of these.
- “unfair dismissal deadline the UK”
- “dismissed what to do first”
- “contest dismissal labour court the UK”
- “fired without reason rights”
- “settlement agreement sign or not”
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